Introduction
Boney M.’s “Still I’m Sad”: A Eurodisco Take on a British Invasion Classic
While Boney M. is synonymous with infectious disco beats and party anthems, “Still I’m Sad” takes a melancholic turn. Released in 1977 on their album “Love for Sale,” it’s not an original Boney M. composition. It’s a cover of a 1965 song by The Yardbirds, a British rock band known for launching the careers of guitar legends Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page.
The Yardbirds’ original “Still I’m Sad” was a bluesy ballad, a stark contrast to Boney M.’s signature sound. However, producer Frank Farian transformed it. The disco makeover featured a slower tempo, prominent keyboards, and the unmistakable layered vocals of Boney M.’s members Liz Mitchell, Marcia Barrett, Bobby Farrell, and Maizie Williams. Despite the disco treatment, the song retains a sense of longing in the lyrics, sung primarily by Liz Mitchell.
“Still I’m Sad” wasn’t a major hit for Boney M. compared to their chart-topping disco tracks like “Daddy Cool” or “Ma Baker” (also on the “Love for Sale” album). However, it showcases their versatility and ability to breathe new life into existing songs. It remains a fan favorite for its melancholic beauty and its unique position in Boney M.’s energetic discography.